Behind the Barre – May 30

Following an abrupt and immediate layoff by the Sacramento Ballet Association, a group of more than 20 professional dancers who hail from around the world found themselves without jobs, and, perhaps more importantly, without an opportunity to showcase their work. What followed is the ultimate lemons to lemonade story.

On May 7th, we received the news that the Sacramento Ballet Association was canceling the remainder of the 2014 – 2015 season, effective May 9th. This meant the cancelation of the popular annual show “Beer and Ballet,” which we had been preparing for since December. Obviously, this was a huge blow. Not only did we find ourselves suddenly unemployed, but also our entire dancer-choreographed show was off. Over half the company had prepared choreography for the show, and from a community standpoint, “Beer and Ballet,” which features dance choreography in addition to a wide selection of craft beers, is a Sacramento audience favorite.

Our immediate reaction as artists and as members of the Sacramento community was to find a way put on the show, in spite of the financial shortfalls of the company. In order to make this show a reality, we realized we would need to create our own separate organization, entirely dancer-run. Within the space of two days, Capital Dance Project was born. A brand-new, independent company made up of dancers who were willing to put in 100% and then some to make it happen.

It seems like it’s been months since we started this organization, but it’s been just over a week and a half. In that short span of time, we have not only able to officially launch our company, but also attained non-profit status through Clay Nutting and his organization “Concerts 4 Charity,” and organized our debut event: “Behind the Barre.” This event, which will take place May 30th at the Crest Theater, will not only feature our original choreographic performance but will also showcase the work of local visual artists and local musicians.

In addition, New Helvetia brewery has generously offered us sponsorship, which means we will have their beers on tap at the event. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and collaboration of other Sacramento organizations and artists who have helped to make this world class event possible.

On the day of Behind the Barre, the doors of the Crest Theater will open at 1:30pm for a pre-performance cocktail reception featuring live music and local artwork. The choreographic performance will begin at 3:00pm. Tickets are $25 general admission and can be purchased online at ticketfly.com; through the box office at the Crest; in person at New Helvetia, The Midtown Farmers Market, Tank House, The Shady Lady Saloon, or Goldfield; or in person by any member of Capital Dance Project.